It is the time of the year when there is an extra hazard to be aware of on the roads.

Highways England has once joined forces with The Deer Initiative to warn motorists about the heightened risk of deer-vehicle collisions during the autumn.

With more than two million deer across the UK, it is estimated that there could be up to 74,000 deer-related motor vehicle accidents this year alone, resulting in 400 to 700 human injuries and 20 deaths.

October through to December is considered a high-risk period as deer will be on the move for the autumn mating season, also known as the rut.

The highest risk of a deer-vehicle collision is between sunset and midnight, and the hours shortly before and after sunrise.

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Senior principal environmental advisor at Highways England, Tony Sangwine said: "We are working with The Deer Initiative to warn motorists about the risks caused by deer, when they suddenly appear on the road, particularly at both dawn and dusk.

"With most deer movement coinciding with key commuting hours, we are urging drivers to be more aware during this time of year so that they can complete their journeys safely and without incident."

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If you are involved in a deer vehicle collision and require assistance, you need to contact the police. If you need to report a deer vehicle collision or you would like to find out more safety advice, visit Deer Aware .